by  Bridget Mukwena 

The 22nd International Images Film Festival for Women (IIFF) has kicked off in Zimbabwe, running from August 22nd to 26th. The festival celebrates women-centered narratives from around the world under the theme “WOMEN MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.”

According to festival organizers, the event features 15 carefully selected films showcasing the transformative power of women’s perspectives in film. The films explore themes such as identity, culture, and social justice, highlighting the impact of patriarchal societies on women’s lives.

The festival includes films from Switzerland, Cape Verde, Portugal, Kenya, Cameroon, and Spain, among others. The opening film, “HANAMI,” directed by Denise Fernandes, tells the story of a woman’s journey through three stages of her life. The closing film, “HOME,” directed by Adelle Onyango, depicts a young lady’s journey of self-discovery and body acceptance.

The festival also includes free masterclasses in Documentary Filmmaking and Film Business, led by industry experts Siobhán Cleary and Alba Bosch-Duran. The event is supported by several embassies, including the Embassy of the Republic of Ireland in Pretoria, the Spanish Embassy in Harare, and the Embassy of Switzerland.

The IIFF provides a unique opportunity for Zimbabwean audiences to engage with women’s stories and perspectives from around the world, promoting positive change and challenging societal norms.

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